Virginia Beach Teen Defense Attorney – Norfolk Criminal Defense Lawyer
“How Young is too Young?”
What exactly is taking an “indecent liberty” with a minor? Most people are unaware of the fact that a minor can also be charged with this sex crime if the victim is a much younger child. Where do our laws draw the line? Undoubtedly a difficult decision, in Virginia, lawmakers believe 5 years to be the appropriate margin of age disparity when it comes to punishing relations or incidents between a minor perpetrator and minor victim. According to Virginia Code § 18.2-370.01, the subject crime punishes any person over age fourteen, but who also is under age eighteen, who intentionally exposes genitals to a child under age fourteen. In addition, the victim must be five or more years younger.
Fortunately, some defense lawyers in Virginia Beach and Norfolk offer consultations when the accused individual is a minor. It is hard for some people to trust an attorney amidst familial turmoil and shocking allegations, and a good lawyer understands that. Regardless of whether you hire a lawyer to defend your child, never let the mere fact that your child is a minor sway you when you determine whether it is in your family’s best interest to hire counsel. This crime is a Class 1 misdemeanor, but the reputation of the accused child stands on the line as well. If your child is facing accusations, allegations or charges, your Virginia Beach Teen Criminal Defense Attorney is extending his offer to your family to give his office a call (or email).